Harvard Faces Deadline to Retain International Students Amid Policy Dispute

Harvard in Crunch Time to Resolve Policy Dispute Impacting Foreign Students

Written by: Supriya Kadu

Edited by: Pinky Deshmukh

Last Updated: May 23, 2025

Summary: Harvard faces a 72-hour deadline to meet U.S. requirements or risk losing the right to admit international students, including many from India.

US officials have given Harvard University 72 hours to meet certain conditions or risk having its permit to admit overseas students withdrawn. Thousands of international students, particularly those from nations like India, may be impacted by this.

The government has reportedly laid out six key conditions for the university, which include changes to diversity policies and ensuring improved campus safety. Officials explained that Harvard has obligations associated with the honour of hosting overseas students that need to be addressed immediately.

If the university fails to comply with the standards, it risks losing its Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) certification and being unable to provide student visas. This would interrupt the academic plans of many current or prospective students.

Harvard is responding fast, reinforcing its commitment to promoting a safe, inclusive, and global environment. The case highlights the growing scrutiny of US universities and their need to meet regulatory standards while still promoting international education.

The ultimate verdict could be announced at any time. It will serve as a model for other educational institutions on how to manage compliance while retaining academic autonomy and global reach.